Celtic loan drama: Marseille boss suspended over Olivier Ntcham deal comments

Marseille's Portuguese coach Andre Villas-Boas. (Photo by NICOLAS TUCAT / AFP) (Photo by NICOLAS TUCAT/AFP via Getty Images)

Marseille have temporarily suspended head coach Andre Villas-Boas after he earlier offered his resignation following the deadline day signing of Olivier Ntcham.

Villas-Boas claimed the Celtic midfielder, who joined on loan until the end of the season, was not a player he wanted and said he did not agree with the club's "sporting policy".

The Ligue 1 club have reacted by placing the former Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur manager on gardening leave ahead of Wednesday's match with Lens.

In a statement on their official website they said: "Marseille announces the temporary suspension of Andre Villas-Boas. This decision has become inevitable due to repeated actions and comments which are seriously damaging to Olympique Marseille and its employees, who defend it daily.

Olivier Ntcham. (Photo by Craig Williamson / SNS Group)

"The comments regarding sporting director Pablo Longoria made today at a press conference are unacceptable.

"His exceptional contribution during this winter transfer window, during an unprecedented crisis, cannot be called into question and on the contrary have been welcomed by everyone.

"Any sanctions against Andre Villas-Boas will be taken following disciplinary procedures."

The Portuguese boss had earlier revealed his resignation and said “I don't want any money, I just want to leave because of a difference in point of view on sports policy. I cannot accept this.”

In a deal beset by drama, Ntcham was unable to catch a flight on deadline day to conclude his move in person.

Now as a consequence of Villas-Boas’ sensational quit threat, and Ntcham’s move, the boss has been quoted in the betting markets as the next Celtic manager – listed at 20/1, though Parkhead assistant John Kennedy is tipped as favourite to be Neil Lennon’s future successor.

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